Apple MacBook Neo vs. LG gram Book 15: Which is Better for $599?

The Apple MacBook Neo delivers a higher-quality experience overall, making it the better choice for users prioritizing macOS and premium build quality, while the LG gram Book 15 offers more storage and ports for Windows users on a budget.

LG gram Book 15 vs. MacBook Neo: Price and Value

The LG gram Book 15 for 2026 starts at $699, a price that makes it a compelling alternative to the MacBook Neo’s baseline $599.

Currently, the LG gram Book 15 is discounted by $100, bringing its price down to match the MacBook Neo. This sale price makes the LG gram Book 15 an attractive option for Windows users seeking value.

For those already invested in the Windows ecosystem, the LG gram Book 15 presents a strong case. Its attractive price point, especially during the current sale, offers significant value. This makes it a practical choice for students and casual users who need a reliable machine for everyday tasks without overspending.

The LG gram Book 15 for 2026 boasts an attractive price that can be particularly appealing for those who prefer Windows 11. It is well-suited for lighter productivity tasks, streaming, web browsing, and email. The upgradeable storage and higher RAM configurations further enhance its long-term value.

LG gram Book 15 Strengths

The LG gram Book 15 offers a notable storage advantage over the MacBook Neo, with its baseline model providing 512GB of storage compared to the Neo’s introductory 256GB. Both laptops come with 8GB of RAM, but LG offers configurations with 16GB and 32GB, options Apple does not provide for the Neo.

Further enhancing its upgradeability, the gram Book 15 features two M.2 SSD slots internally, allowing for easy storage expansion after purchase. This is a significant advantage over the MacBook Neo, where internal components are locked down. The gram Book also boasts a superior port selection.

The port selection on the LG gram Book 15 includes one USB-A 3.2 (Gen 1), one USB-A 2.0, two USB-C 3.2 (Gen 2), an HDMI port, and a 3.5mm audio jack. This is a more comprehensive array of connectivity options than what is offered by the MacBook Neo.

MacBook Neo Strengths

For users committed to macOS, the Apple MacBook Neo is the clear choice. While it has fewer ports and less internal upgradeability than the LG gram Book 15, its strengths lie in its operating system, display quality, and overall performance. It provides a streamlined and integrated experience for those within the Apple ecosystem.

The MacBook Neo’s display is a significant highlight, featuring a resolution of 2408×1506, a 16:10 aspect ratio, and 500 nits of brightness with Dolby Vision support. In comparison, the LG gram Book 15 has a 1920×1080 display with 300 nits. The Neo also includes a 1080p webcam, superior to the gram Book’s 720p camera.

Performance is another area where the MacBook Neo excels. Its Apple A18 Pro System-on-Chip delivers superior single- and multi-core performance, as well as better integrated GPU performance than the Intel Core Ultra 5 115U in the gram Book. This translates to a faster and more efficient computing experience.

Which Should You Buy?

While the LG gram Book 15 for 2026 offers notable advantages like upgradeable storage and a better port selection, it’s likely not the primary choice if you prefer macOS. Apple’s MacBook Neo provides a higher-quality overall experience, especially for those invested in the Apple ecosystem.

The LG gram Book 15 remains a solid option for students and casual Windows 11 users who want to avoid overspending. Windows 11 offers greater flexibility for running various tools and applications, and it is a better platform for gaming, though the gram Book is not primarily a gaming device.

If you are new to both operating systems or value flexibility, Windows 11 on the LG gram Book 15 is a compelling choice. However, if you prioritize a simple, sleek interface and seamless integration with other Apple devices, the MacBook Neo is the superior option. Its higher build quality and superior display are significant advantages.

Feature	LG gram Book 15 (2026)	Apple MacBook Neo
Starting Price	$699 ($599 on sale)	$599
CPU	Intel Core Ultra 5 115U	Apple A18 Pro (6-core)
RAM	8GB, 16GB, 32GB DDR5 (Upgradeable)	8GB LPDDR5
Storage	512GB, 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD (Upgradeable)	256GB, 512GB
Display	15.6-inch FHD (1920×1080), 16:9, 300 nits, Touch	13-inch 2408×1506, 16:10, 500 nits, Dolby Vision
Ports	2x USB-A, 2x USB-C, HDMI, 3.5mm audio	1x USB-C 3.2 (Gen 2), 1x USB-C 2.0, 3.5mm audio
Webcam	720p (HD) with privacy shutter	1080p
Operating System	Windows 11	macOS

Frequently Asked Questions

Which laptop has more storage?

The LG gram Book 15 offers more storage, with a baseline of 512GB compared to the MacBook Neo’s 256GB. Additionally, the gram Book 15 features two upgradeable M.2 SSD slots.

Which laptop has a better display?

The MacBook Neo has a superior display with a higher resolution of 2408×1506, a 16:10 aspect ratio, and 500 nits of brightness, plus Dolby Vision support. The gram Book 15 has a 15.6-inch FHD display with 300 nits and touch functionality.

Which laptop is better for performance?

The MacBook Neo is better for performance due to its Apple A18 Pro chip, which offers superior single-core, multi-core, and integrated GPU performance compared to the Intel Core Ultra 5 115U in the LG gram Book 15.

Which laptop has more ports?

The LG gram Book 15 offers a wider variety of ports, including two USB-A ports, two USB-C ports, and an HDMI port. The MacBook Neo is limited to one USB-C 3.2 (Gen 2), one USB-C 2.0, and a 3.5mm audio jack.

Buy the LG gram Book 15 if: you are a Windows user prioritizing storage capacity and upgradeability, need a wider selection of ports including HDMI, or are looking for a budget-friendly option with a touch display.

Buy the Apple MacBook Neo if: you prefer macOS, want a premium aluminum build, demand a higher-quality display with better brightness and resolution, or need the most powerful and efficient processor for a laptop in this price range.